Becoming an Investment Banker
So you think you might like to become an investment banker? Investment bankers who work at a financial firm give advice to clients about managing, investing, and growing wealth. To do this, they make financial predictions by analyzing the performance of assets, including stocks and bonds, creating asset management plans, and assessing risk associated with financial growth.
Career Requirements
So what are the career requirements? Starting with the right education is important.
| Degree Level | Bachelor's degree; Master degree preferred |
| Degree Field | Finance, Business Administration |
| Experience | 1-2 years of experience for associate positions |
| Licensure and Certification | Licensure required; Registration and qualifying exam required; Certification available after gaining experience in the field |
| Key Skills | Analytical, strong math skills, problem-solving skills, ethical, and computer literate |
Step 1: Earn a Degree
Students interested in a career in investment banking should begin their education by earning a bachelor's degree in finance or business from an accredited college or university. While earning the bachelor's degree, students typically undertake internships or participate in rotational programs as a para-professional to root their academic knowledge in common business practices and network with professionals.
After earning an undergraduate degree, aspiring investment bankers may go on to graduate school to further their education and expand their career options. Though it is possible to secure an entry-level position without a graduate degree, a Master in Business Administration (MBA) is helpful for those wishing to excel to the top level in the field. Students will learn about asset classes including stocks and bonds, mergers and acquisitions, brokering and securing investments.
Success Tip
- Connect with recruiters. Find out which potential employers recruit through your college or university, and attend the periodic recruiting events that investment banks use to interview candidates at the bank's offices.
Step 2: Obtain an Entry-Level Job
Securing an entry-level or junior investment banker position is competitive at top companies and requires a lot of networking and research on your end. Learn all you can about the investment firms in your area along with specialties within the field. These positions may not be advertised, so it's important to schedule as many informational interviews as you can. The more people you meet, the better your chances are of securing an investment banking job.
In the field of investment banking, entry-level jobs are referred to as analyst or financial analyst positions. This career step requires analytical skills, math skills, spreadsheet skills, and dedication. You should anticipate working as an analyst for two to three years before either being promoted or being let go. Those who have a bachelor's degree may decide to further their education at this point and pursue a master's degree.
Step 3: Experience and Registration
Analysts have very little contact with clients. Instead, they learn how to write informational documents, called pitchbooks. Pitchbooks are used to sell financial products, such as industry reports, research, risk assessments, and future financial projections. Even an entry-level career in investment banking requires long hours and perseverance due to the competitive nature of the field. Investment banks typically provide on-the-job training to familiarize newcomers with the firm's policies and products. Trainees may also be educated in salesmanship, securities analysis, and communication techniques.
Investment advisors and broker-dealers are required to register as representatives of a firm through the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). To register, the person must pass the General Securities Registered Representative Examination, also known as the Series 7 Exam. Some states may require additional exams. Many firms offer training to prepare for these exams. Independent investment advisors or broker-dealers not employed by a firm must also undertake periodic continuing education in addition to passing FINRA qualifying exams.
Step 4: Obtain Associate Position
Once you are promoted to associate, you can expect to work at this level for about four to five years. This position usually requires a graduate-level education and an associate typically has an MBA. Some individuals with a master's degree bypass the analyst position and begin their career as an associate. Associates perform many of the same tasks as an analyst, but they have greater responsibility. They may supervise a team of analysts, and they deal directly with clients to sell the company's services and advise on financial decisions. Clients can range from individuals, to corporations, to financial institutions, and are varied depending on the specialty of the investment banking firm.
Step 5: Secure Leadership Position
After working as an associate for several years, you can expect to be promoted or let go. Top associates are promoted to vice presidents, executive directors, or directors. In addition to industry-related knowledge, executives are expected to have strategic decision making skills, leadership skills, and management skills. Extensive travel is typically required because of the global nature of investment banking. At this level, bonuses typically exceed an investment banker's base salary.
Earning a degree, obtaining an entry-level job, gaining experience and registration, obtaining an associate position, and securing a leadership position are the steps to follow to make the most of a career as an investment banker.
